Merck & Co, Inc

Associate Scientist, Post Doc Fellow- Quantitative Biosciences Early Discovery

Merck & Co, Inc • $82K — $92K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Pharmacology, Structural Biology, or related field (or expected by spring 2027)
  • Hands-on expertise in quantitative biophysical methods for characterizing protein interactions
  • Experience in recombinant protein design, expression, and purification
  • Knowledge of biological NMR spectroscopy and structural biology techniques
  • Proven scientific productivity with first-author publications and conference presentations
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills in a team-oriented environment

Responsibilities

  • Lead innovative research methodologies in chemically induced proximity
  • Integrate biophysical and biochemical approaches to study macromolecular complexes
  • Drive an independent research agenda from hypothesis to validation
  • Collaborate with computational teams to enhance experimental investigations
  • Communicate findings through presentations and publications

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and families
  • Retirement benefits including 401(k)
  • Paid holidays and vacation days
  • Compassionate and sick leave
  • Annual bonus and long-term incentive eligibility
Full Job Description

Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Quantitative Biosciences Early Discovery

Join the Legacy: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program

Position Overview:

We are seeking an exceptionally motivated and innovative research scientist for a Postdoctoral Fellowship in the Department of Quantitative Biosciences (QB) Early Discovery at our company's Research Laboratories in Rahway, New Jersey.

 

In this role, the fellow will pioneer novel drug discovery methodologies in the rapidly expanding field of chemically induced proximity (e.g., molecular glues, heterobifunctional degraders/PROTACs, and proximity-inducing modalities). Leveraging state-of-the-art biophysical, biochemical, structural, and computational platforms, you will collaborate with cross-functional scientific teams to decode complex ternary systems and translate mechanistic insights into drug discovery paradigms.

 

Fellows are fully supported to author high-impact scientific publications in top-tier peer-reviewed journals, present at premier international conferences, and develop deep expertise in modern industrial early-stage drug discovery.

 

Responsibilities:

  • Lead Research & Innovation: Under the mentorship of senior scientific leaders, conceptualize, design, and execute cutting-edge methodologies to interrogate and exploit chemically induced proximity. Maintain deep familiarity with emerging literature to identify and capture novel therapeutic opportunities.
  • Multi-Modal Biophysical & Biochemical Characterization: Integrate quantitative biochemical, biophysical, and structural approaches to investigate macromolecular complexes, ternary complex formation, and protein–small molecule interactions.
  • Independent Project Ownership: Formulate and drive an independent research agenda from hypothesis generation to mechanistic validation, working flexibly within multidisciplinary project teams across discovery chemistry, biology, and pharmacology.
  • Computational & Experimental Synergy: In close partnership with the Modeling & Informatics team, integrate computational workflows with experimental investigations—curating structural constraints, evaluating predictive protein–ligand and protein-complex models, and prioritizing testable hypotheses.
  • Scientific Dissemination: Actively communicate findings through presentations at internal scientific symposia, international conferences, and lead-author publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

 

Education Minimum Requirement:

  • Must currently hold a Ph.D. OR
  • Receive a Ph.D. no later than spring 2027
  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Pharmacology, Structural Biology, or related disciplines.

 

Required Experience and Skills:

  • Biophysical & Biochemical Expertise: Demonstrated hands-on expertise in characterizing protein–ligand and protein–protein interactions using quantitative biophysical methods (e.g., SPR, ITC, MST, BLI, or fluorescence-based assays such as TR-FRET/FP).
  • Protein Biochemistry: Proven track record in recombinant protein construct design, expression systems, and chromatographic purification (experience with isotopic labeling for NMR or structural applications is highly desirable).
  • Biomolecular NMR or Structural Analysis: Working knowledge and practical experience in biological NMR spectroscopy (resonance assignment, chemical shift perturbation, or ligand-observed experiments) and/or structural biology techniques.
  • Structural Interpretation: Demonstrated capability to analyze, visualize, and interpret high-resolution protein structures, binding interfaces, and ligand binding modes using molecular modeling software (e.g., PyMOL, MOE, Schrödinger Maestro, or ChimeraX).
  • Scientific Track Record: Proven record of scientific productivity and independent thinking, evidenced by first-author publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
  • Collaboration & Communication: Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to thrive in a highly collaborative, team-oriented research setting.

 

Preferred Experience and Skills:

  • Chemically Induced Proximity & Screening: Prior experience in ternary complex systems, targeted protein degradation (TPD), molecular glues, or early hit-finding platforms (e.g., Fragment-Based Drug Discovery [FBDD], High-Throughput Screening [HTS], or DNA-Encoded Libraries [DEL]).
  • High-Resolution Structural Biology: Hands-on or collaborative experience in high-resolution structural determination techniques, including X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, or multi-dimensional BioNMR.
  • In Silico & Predictive Modeling: Familiarity with modern AI/ML structure prediction tools (e.g., AlphaFold2/3, AlphaFold-Multimer, RoseTTAFold, Boltz, Chai) for modeling multi-protein complexes and protein–ligand interactions.
  • Computational Biophysics & Scripting: Proficiency in Python or R for data analysis, combined with exposure to physics-based modeling methods such as molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, or virtual screening.

 

The salary range for this role is: $82,000- $92,000

 

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs. 

  

The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable. 

  

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days.

 

Required Skills:

Biochemistry, Biomolecular Chemistry, Biophysics, Computational Biology, Ligand Binding, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR), Protein Expression, Protein Interactions, Scientific Presentations, Structural Biology

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

Domestic

VISA Sponsorship:

Yes

Travel Requirements:

10%

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

Not Indicated

Valid Driving License:

No

Hazardous Material(s):

N/A

Job Posting End Date:

10/12/2026

*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

About Merck & Co, Inc

Schering-Plough Corporation is a major U.S.-based manufacturer of pharmaceuticals. It operates in three segments: Prescription Pharmaceuticals, Animal Health, and Consumer Health Care. Schering-Plough develops products targeting on allergy, cancer, hepatitis, cardiovascular, central nervous system, respiratory system, and more.  It was founded in 1851 by Ernst Christian Friedrich Schering as Schering AG in Germany. Schering-Plough manufactured several pharmaceutical drugs, the most well-known of which were the allergy drugs Claritin and Clarinex, an anti-cholesterol drug Vytorin, and a brain tumor drug Temodar. It also developed drugs targeting on central nervous system and the respiratory system. Schering Plough also owned and operated the major foot care brand name Dr. Scholl's and the skin care line Coppertone. These also became a part of the new company. Schering-Plough was a full member of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), a membership which is also maintained by the new Merck.

Merck & Co, Inc Careers

Join the visionary team at Merck & Co, Inc, a global leader in healthcare dedicated to advancing the world of medicine. As part of our professional community, you'll find dynamic job opportunities that foster innovation and leadership across various fields. Merck & Co, Inc is not just a company; it's a place where you can make a difference.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck & Co, Inc, we are committed to improving global health through groundbreaking research and innovative healthcare solutions. Our team is at the forefront of developing new therapies and vaccines that significantly impact public health worldwide. By joining us, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, using your skills to contribute to projects that save and improve lives around the globe.

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Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a professional position, Merck & Co, Inc offers a range of career paths in environments that promote rapid professional growth and development. Explore job opportunities in research, digital transformation, manufacturing, and more, all while benefiting from a culture that supports diversity and inclusion.

Innovate and Lead

Merck & Co, Inc is an ideal environment for those who lead with curiosity and the drive to innovate. Our leadership is committed to fostering a culture where inventive thinking and collaboration are encouraged, making it a perfect place for professionals who seek to make an impact through their work.

Develop Your Skills

With Merck & Co, Inc, you are not just getting a job; you're gaining access to unparalleled career development opportunities. Enhance your skills through diverse training programs, workshops, and continuous learning courses designed to help you grow at every stage of your career.

Benefits and Culture

We understand that our employees are our greatest asset, which is why we offer competitive benefits designed to support the health and well-being of you and your family. From comprehensive health care coverage and retirement plans to flexible working conditions and wellness programs, our benefits package is designed to meet the diverse needs of our team members.

Join Our Team

Ready to advance your career at Merck & Co, Inc? Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for passionate, creative, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and become part of a company that's dedicated to making a difference.

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Learn more about Merck & Co, Inc
Size
68,000 employees
Market Cap
$282.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$7 billion
Founded
1668
5 Year Trend
+4.1%
Revenue
$47.9 billion
NASDAQ

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